To address the mental health crises faced by students of the University of Northern Philippines (UNP), the Psychology Students Organization (PSO) of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) launched a university-wide free mental health consultation at the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) Function Hall on December 3, 2024.

A total of 19 participants pre-registered for the activity. Initial screenings were conducted by trained mental health first aiders who engaged in discussions with participants.

In cases where participants displayed serious mental health concerns or suicidal thoughts, they were immediately referred to registered psychologists from UNP for in-depth consultations.

The consultants were registered psychometricians and registered psychologists, namely: Mr. Mico Molina (BS Psychology program head), Mrs. Alexandria Blake Cay Real-Pisalbo (BS Psychology faculty & founder of Mental Health Mother), and Mrs. Precious Lyn Babida (Head, Admission Services & Students with Special Needs and Persons with Disabilities Services).

Ms. Lovely May Azcueta, PSO president, shared that the program was initially planned for Mental Health Awareness Month but had to be postponed due to conflicts and suspensions.

“Thankfully, our CAS dean, Dr. Remedios T. Navarro, herself a BS Psychology faculty, invited individuals, and my PSO officers remained highly committed to pushing this through, ensuring the success of this activity,” she remarked.

The initiative provided relief and comfort to UNPians who attended the consultation. Follow-up sessions, interventions, and discussions are planned to ensure continuous support for participants, particularly those in critical states. Additionally, all background information shared by participants was strictly safeguarded to maintain confidentiality, ensuring the privacy and trust of clients.

Article by Jesame A. Villa.